Instruments

The Pontic Lyra(kemenche) is made up of several components, each of which serves a basic purpose. Listed from 1 through to 11, the following are the basic components of the lyra, each of which bares a name which derives from the Pontian dielect, and which usually describes the function of that particular part. For instance, the bridge is called a Gaidaron (Gr: Γαϊδαρον) which means 'Donkey' in the Pontic dialect. It's function is to carry a heavy load, that of the 3 chords, and it also looks like a donkey saddle. Another example is the Palikar (Gr: Παλικάρ) which means 'Strong Man' in Pontic. It's purpose is to hold the 3 chords in place at the base of the lyra.